Reader Feedback: Defining Middle Class, Severe Weather

What Defines Middle Class?

Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney sparked a media firestorm last week during an interview on ABC's "Good Morning America" when he said families who earn $250,000 are considered middle class.

Several West Islip Patch readers weighed in with their own opinions, some of which were at odds.

"Tired of This" agreed that six-figure slaries are middle class, particularly on Long Island, where property taxes are so high.

"Mitt Romney is correct in stating that middle class income is between $200-250,000 or LESS for total household income, especially on Long Island." they wrote.

A user by the name of "frustrated" agreed, saying: "You are so right. I do not make that $ but some average people with teaching jobs, police - if they are married to a teacher that is their salary. With the taxes on LI and other utility prices from gas to electric... you are lucky to have left over $. Forget it if you have student loans for kids in college."

However, not everyone was on Romney's side.

"MITT ROMNEY is done," wrote user Donna.

What do you think? Tell us in the comments below.

Is Severe Weather The New Norm?

Following a tumultuous month weather-wise, which included several sever storms and two tornado warnings on Long Island, we asked our readers if they think the weather is getting worse.

Poll results showed voters were split right down the middle.

Fifty percent of voters said they don't think the harsh weather is anything new—bad weather has always been a part of life.

The remaining fifty percent think there has been a shift in weather patterns over the last few years.

Do you agree? Tell us below.